Construction project management is a highly complex field and always presents new challenges, even for experienced construction managers. How can construction projects be managed safely and with maximum time and cost efficiency? Find out more about the 7 key factors that construction engineers and project managers can use to lead even large construction companies to success.
The demands on a construction manager or civil engineer are becoming increasingly complex and the job profile is changing. Not only is specialist knowledge in planning and construction required, but also organizational talent, economic competence, knowledge of construction, planning and public procurement law and leadership qualities.
A good construction manager must be able to motivate people on the construction site, negotiate with partners and manage construction processes in a time and cost-oriented manner. By taking on interdisciplinary organizational tasks, he becomes a “construction manager” who has to coordinate the entire construction project.
7 specific core competencies are crucial for a successful construction management process that saves time and money
1. planning
Even the planning and clear definition of a large number of different parameters such as time, targets, performance standards, etc. requires a view of the big picture – as does the tendering process and the awarding of contracts to subcontractors.
2. coordinate
The aim of comprehensive coordination of the construction project is to establish a smooth workflow and prevent disruptive overlaps. All trades must be coordinated in such a way that the planned time frame is not exceeded too far. Scheduling is the be-all and end-all for every planning and construction process. In a complex construction project, it can be a science in itself.
3. calculation and control
Draw up a structured budget breakdown and potential savings, evaluate planner, general contractor and subcontractor offers, analyze deviations from the budget and take corrective measures: Liquidity planning, project accounting and cost control should be no stranger to a construction manager.
4. organize
Controlling equipment management and materials management is also an important success factor in construction projects. How can the procurement process be optimized and how is sustainable equipment management possible? Many construction delays cannot be predicted – but those resulting from a lack of building materials and equipment can.
5. documenting
Construction progress, services, delays, defects – all of this should be meticulously recorded and documented for the client. A complete Construction diary accompanied by detailed Photo documentation can provide the decisive basis for basis for the defense against later recourse claims. later on.
6. correct
Monitoring the high-quality execution of construction work and safety on the construction site is also one of the responsibilities that can make the difference between success and failure. Disruptions and defects must be tracked and resolved promptly. This allows construction progress to continue smoothly despite any obstacles that arise.
7. control and communication
In construction management, this includes the establishment of an individual project organization and strong communication channels to avoid or resolve conflicts between the parties involved.
“The construction process is essentially a communication process“, is even the conclusion of Dr. Manfred Körtgen in his research work at the Institute for Construction Management at the University of Kassel on optimization approaches for handling complex construction projects.
You may agree or disagree with this statement, but one thing is certain: the increase in complexity and cost and time pressure in construction is a challenge for the current and future generation of site managers, construction engineers and project managers. Sooner or later, even hardened digitalization sceptics will not be able to avoid using appropriate software. But why should they – the advantages are obvious. The time and cost savings and the reduction in workload that can be achieved by investing in software and apps are enormous and should convince everyone on closer inspection.
Picture credits: 123onsite/Timo Lutz advertising photography
